Tag: Idaho Legislature

Last September, a study done by the finance website WalletHub listed Idaho as 41st in the nation for “political empowerment” for women, based on the number of Idaho women elected to Congress, the state Legislature and statewide executive positions. In fact, the Idaho Statesman reported that during Idaho's 2018 primaries the only male candidates who won from either major party were in races where there was not a female candidate running a serious campaign. The number of women in the Idaho Legislature is increasing every year and currently stands at 32. Things are even looking up for women in politics in many cities and counties around the state. They took more time with family. “I’ve always been a person that believed that it’s important to be involved,” she said. I hope (my children) grow up valuing opportunities to contribute and public service and what it means to be an American.” Packer said she believes another big factor in the rising number of female politicians in Idaho is an increase in encouragement from men and women alike. “We’re seeing more support, which I think is helping women to feel more comfortable in putting their name in the running,” Packer said. “They give different scenarios of whether it’s a lobbyist or an intern or a colleague and what is considered appropriate and what is not and how to respond to it. I think people in Idaho take it very seriously and are doing what we need to do to prevent any kind of abuse or wrong behavior.” Packer said she is hopeful that in time, Idaho will see an equal number of male and female politicians.